Sexually Transmitted Disease
What is Sexually Transmitted Disease
A sexually transmitted disease (STD), a.k.a. Venereal disease (VD), is an illness that has a significant probability of transmission between people by means of sexual contact, including vaginal intercourse, oral sex, and anal sex. Increasingly, the term sexually transmitted infection (STI) is used, as it has a broader range of meaning; a person may be infected, and may potentially infect others, without showing signs of disease. Some STIs can also be transmitted via the needles used in IV drug use, as well as through childbirth or breastfeeding. Sexually transmitted infections have been well known for hundreds of years.
What are the Symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Disease
Some STD's show no symptoms at all. It is advisable to get screened after unprotected sex. However depending on which STD you have contracted these may be among them:
- A white, yellow, green, grey, or blood-streaked discharge that may have a strong smell.
- Genital and/or anal itching.
- rash, blisters, sores, lumps, bumps, warts on or around the genitals.
- burning during urination.
- swollen lymph glands in the groin.
- Pain in the groin or lower abdomen.
- Vaginal bleeding.
- Testicular swelling.
- Flu like symptoms.
- Painful intercourse
What are the Causes of Sexually Transmitted Disease
Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, and syphilis are caused by bacteria, while AIDS, genital herpes, genital warts, and hepatitis B are caused by a virus. The pathogens that cause STDs are found in bodily secretions such as semen, blood, vaginal fluids, and sometimes saliva. Most of the organisms are spread by either sexual or personal contact.
If you are in a risky group always have regular tests.
Traditional Medical Treatments for Sexually Transmitted Disease
Never attempt to treat an STD yourself. These diseases are contagious and dangerous. You must see a doctor.
Bacterial STDs can be cured with antibiotics if treatment begins early enough. Viral STDs cannot be cured, but you can manage symptoms with medications. There is a vaccine to prevent hepatitis B, but it will not help if you have already contracted the disease.
Complementaty/Alternative Treatments for Sexually Transmitted Disease
See entries for specific sexually transmitted diseases for information on alternative therapies. But remember always seek conventional medical help first.